- Melanoma Stage 0 Diagnosis
Overview
Stage 0 Melanoma diagnosis, also called In Situ Melanoma, means that the cancer has only affected the top layer of your skin called epidermis, shown here in dark pink.
As you can see, the abnormal area has not spread into deeper tissues of the skin, nor has it affected the closest lymph nodes or any other organs in your body.
What Tests Will I Need and Why?
Blood and Imaging tests may be done to understand your general health, confirm your diagnosis and determine your cancer stage.
Tissue analysis is also typically done to identify the cancer cell type, which is critical to finding the best treatment option for you.
If your treatment team has not already performed tests to determine your cancer’s features, please ask your doctor when these tests will be performed.
Re-read this summary as needed and then tap, “Compare My Treatment Options Now“. Our unique Comparison Page will help you understand your FDA-approved treatment options including, who can help you pay for your treatment, where and how each is given and what side-effects you may experience.

National Institute of Health/ treatment-melanoma
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Commonly Searched Questions
Stage 0 Melanoma Definition
Source: AimatMelanoma.org
Stage 0 Melanoma Recurrence Rate
Source: Cancer.gov
Stage 0 Melanoma Treatment
Source: Curemelanoma.org
Stage 0 Melanoma Survival Rate
Source: Curemelanoma.org
Stage 0 Melanoma Symptoms
- A New Spot or Lesion: A new mole or spot on the skin that may be different from the surrounding skin.
- Changes in an Existing Mole: A mole or spot that changes in size, shape, or color.
- Irregular Borders: The edges of the spot may be uneven or irregular.
- Color Variations: The spot may have different colors, including shades of brown, black, or tan.
- Itching or Bleeding: The spot may be itchy or bleed, though this is less common in Stage 0.
Source: Cancer.gov
Stage 0 Melanoma Prevention
- Avoid Excessive Sun Exposure: Limit direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and seek shade when possible.
- Use Sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on all exposed skin, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Use hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved clothing to protect your skin from UV rays. Avoid Tanning Beds: Do not use tanning beds or other artificial sources of UV light, as they increase the risk of melanoma.
- Perform Regular Skin Checks: Regularly examine your skin for new or changing moles and spots. Early detection can help prevent the progression of melanoma.
- See a Dermatologist: Get regular skin exams from a dermatologist, especially if you have a history of sunburns, numerous moles, or a family history of melanoma.
Source: AimatMelanoma.org